"For excellent dumplings, chewy noodles, and a little capsaicin-fueled rush, head to Chengdu Bistro in Wicker Park. This casual Chinese spot is part of the Chengdu Impression family. And like its siblings, Chengdu Bistro doesn’t shy from heat—most of their dishes are loaded with sichuan peppercorns. The flaming noodle is appropriately named, and like the spicy beef noodle, has a complex savoriness thanks to the tingly spice. But even if you aren’t a spice-seeker, grab a table in this Chinese spot’s busy dining room for their lamb and chives dumplings." - sam faye, adrian kane, john ringor